CHARGERS: Finding Meachem more often

SAN DIEGO ---- Every pass attempt from Philip Rivers to Robert Meachem has been scrutinized this preseason, and it's not limited to games. The Chargers quarterback and new receiver have struggled to complete passes even in practice.

In games, Rivers has twice thrown an interceptions while aiming in Meachem's direction, though the former New Orleans Saint took responsibility for one of those picks.

Both have said that chemistry comes with time and repetition, but they also insist improvement has come in small increments often unclear to the untrained eye.

Rivers said he isn't worried, although he is paying closer attention to Meachem's whereabouts. He connected with him repeatedly during a workout with the Dallas Cowboys on Monday.

"For all the people that are quick to jump on Robert Meachem and my progress, during practices today we connected on about 15 balls," Rivers said. "Things are improving."

Injury update

Several Chargers did not participate in Monday's practice with the Dallas Cowboys. Wide receiver Eddie Royal was a no show, although coach Norv Turner believes he could start practicing on Wednesday. Nose tackle Antonio Garay (ankle), cornerback Marcus Gilchrist (hamstring), safety Darrell Stuckey (stinger), running back Ryan Mathews (broken clavicle) and left tackle Jared Gaither (back) did not participate.

Brown in limbo

Turner said he's hopeful that wide receiver Vincent Brown can contribute this season after breaking his ankle Saturday, but he won't commit to keeping Brown on the 53-man roster (and off injured reserve) until the final cut.